Warri Crisis: Senator Dafinone Calls For Calm, Urges Peaceful Resolution

By Daniel Dafe

Senator Ede Dafinone, of the Delta Central Senatorial District has called for calm and tasked all parties on peaceful resolution following reports of fresh crisis between the Itsekiris and Urhobos in Warri South Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement on Tuesday, he said: “As Senator representing the good people of Delta Central Senatorial District, I received with deep concern the reports of fresh crisis between the Itsekiris and Urhobos in Warri South Local Government Area. At this critical time, I appeal to all parties to exercise restraint and shun any acts of violence. I further call on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to act swiftly in de-escalating the situation and ensuring the safety of all communities.

“The Urhobos and our Itsekiri neighbours have coexisted as brothers for decades, sharing cultural, social, and economic ties that must not be destroyed by avoidable conflicts. I appeal to both sides to embrace dialogue and peace, as peace remains priceless and irreplaceable. Violence can only bring pain, destruction, and setbacks to our communities.”

According to the lawmaker, he is particularly “troubled by reports of attacks on the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) House at Okere-Urhobo, which also resulted in injuries to some Urhobo youths,” saying that “such acts are deeply regrettable, as the UPU represents the heritage and identity of the Urhobo people worldwide.”

Adding: “An attack on the UPU is, by extension, an attack on the entire Urhobo Nation,” just as he urged “the authorities to investigate these incidents thoroughly and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”

He continued: “In maintaining peace and security, it is important that security agencies remain neutral, fair, and proactive, in order to prevent escalation. The Urhobos of Warri, like all citizens, deserve protection from the Nigerian state. I also stress that security measures must always prioritise dialogue, trust-building, and reconciliation, as these are the surest safeguards against a recurrence of conflict.”

Furthermore, he called on all stakeholders; traditional leaders, community elders, youth groups, and political actors, “to join hands in fostering unity, peace, and mutual respect,” stating that “it is equally important that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) concludes the Supreme Court-ordered delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency, as this will help address longstanding grievances and lay a stronger foundation for peaceful coexistence.”

“Together, we can sustain the bonds of brotherhood and build a future anchored on justice and harmony,” he concluded.